Calculator tool to help doctors in bulk-billing push

The Labor government tipped $7.9 billion into its plan to expand bulk-billing and said nine out of 10 GP visits would be bulk-billed by 2030.

From November 1, clinics that bulk bill every patient will receive a 12.5 per cent payment for each consultation, along with a conditional, variable payment depending on the clinic's remoteness.

The calculator will tailor income estimates based on consultation mix, current billing model, location and the proportion of patients receiving concessions, the government said.

"Already GP practices around the country have said they will move to a fully bulk-billing practice … doctors and practices are making the shift because they know it is good for patients, and it is good for their bottom line," Mr Butler said.

"The calculator will help practices and GPs see how mixed billing practices will be better off when they switch to fully bulk-billed."

Australia Medical Association president Danielle McMullen said additional investment and tools to help practices were always welcomed.

"Without having seen the calculator, we still welcome that ability for better transparency for general practices … we want care to be affordable, but it does also have to financially sustainable," she told AAP.

"Tools to make things easier for practices are welcome … having 8000 general practices all having to figure out the finances themselves, if this does streamline things then that is useful."

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners also liked the move and said it would keep working with the government on more affordable care measures.

"The college will continue to advocate for increasing Medicare rebates so patients face lower out-of-pocket costs, particularly for longer consultations where time and continuity are essential," a spokesperson told AAP.

"This support must extend to all practices, regardless of whether they take up current incentive programs."